19-Year-Old Man Arrested After Killing Two Mourners At An All-Night Funeral Service

The suspect, identified as Liberty Sibanda, now faces multiple criminal charges, including murder and attempted murder.

Man Arrested After Killing Two Mourners At An All-Night Funeral Service

According to police reports, the violent outburst occurred on August 3rd during an overnight prayer service at Mashavele Village. The worshippers had gathered to honour a deceased family member when the unexpected attack unfolded.

“The victims were seated near a fire when the suspect suddenly emerged from his room and assaulted one individual with a sharp weapon,” stated Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri of the Criminal Investigations Department. “When others attempted to intervene, they too became targets of the violent assault.”

Emergency services transported all victims to medical facilities, where one worshipper tragically succumbed to neck injuries. Two other attendees received treatment for back wounds and were later released.

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Sibanda made his initial court appearance at Chikombedzi Magistrates Court on August 8th, where judges ordered him held in detention until his next hearing scheduled for August 21st.

Second Violent Episode Shakes Community

This tragedy marks the second violent incident reported in the Chikombedzi area within days. In a separate occurrence, a funeral service in Mukuwo Village turned deadly when an unidentified assailant attacked mourners, killing one woman and injuring three others.

Police authorities continue searching for the funeral attacker and have requested public assistance in locating the suspect.

“We urge community members to share any relevant information with local law enforcement,” added officials in a social media statement.

Police Appeal for Peaceful Conflict Resolution

Zimbabwe law enforcement officials have reiterated their call for citizens to seek non-violent solutions to disagreements.

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“We strongly discourage resorting to physical violence as a means to settle disputes,” emphasized Det-Insp Muteweri in her concluding remarks.

Investigations into both cases remain ongoing as the community grapples with these back-to-back tragedies.